§ 31. Mr. J. GUESTasked the Minister of Pensions the amount of the reduction in the cost of war pensions during the past two years; and if he can give the amount of such reduction which is due to a lessened cost of administration and the reduction in payments to war pensioners, respectively?
§ Major TRYONThe total expenditure (excluding cost of administration) of my Department for the year ending 31st March, 1923, was approximately £78,820,000 as compared with £90,035,516 for the previous year, a decrease of £11,215,516, or 12 per cent. The cost of administration for the year ending 31st March, 1923, was approximately £4,180,000, a decrease of £1,344,100, or 24 per cent., on the figure for the previous year.
§ Mr. T. GRIFFITHSIs it not a fact that this reduction has been brought about by the skinning of the ex-service men?
§ Major TRYONThe hon. Member took part in the debate, when I gave an explanation, and he knows that that description is inaccurate.